If you want to check that your contact lens is the right way around, put it in a cup-like position on your fingertip. You can pick it up at eye level and check out its shape. If the lens edges extend gently upward like a bowl, you have it in the right spot. But if the ends flare out and appear saucer-like, then the lens is inside out.

The simple visual test can avoid discomfort and allow for clear vision. With consistent practice, you will soon be able to recognize which direction your lenses should face.

2. The Taco Test

The Taco Test is another way to test your lens orientation. You can hold the lens with your thumb and forefinger together, so you’re holding it near the middle, leaving the edges open. Squeeze the lens gently in half. If the corners bend inwards like a taco shell, then the lens is facing correctly. If the edges are curved outside, away from one another, it is inside out.

This touch technique can be useful especially if the shape of the lens is unclear. You'll soon be able to master this to align your lenses properly.

3. Check for Laser Markings

Some contact lenses have laser-engraved numbers or letters for orientation. Put the lens on your fingertip and expose it to a light source. Look on the lens side for these marks. If the characters look OK, the lens is pointing in the right direction. If they seem reversed or reversed, then the lens is inside out. 

It’s especially useful for first-time users who’re still new to handling lenses. By becoming familiar with these markings, inserting your contacts should be easier.

4. Edge Tint Inspection

Some contact lenses even have a handling tint that extends to the side to make them easy to see. This visual indicator can be a very fast marker, especially in well-lit environments.

To do this method, simply hold the lens at your fingertip and observe its rim from above. If the edge tint seems vibrant and smooth, the lens is facing the correct direction. If the tint is pale or washed out, the lens is probably inside out.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Despite these strategies, it is very easy to make a mistake. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Skipping Hand Hygiene

Always wash and dry your hands before bending the lenses so as not to introduce bacteria into your eyes. Unwashed hands spread dirt, oil, and germs to your lenses, which could result in eye infection. The soap should be mild and antibacterial. Dry your hands with a non-lint towel to keep them clean.

Using Water or Saliva

Never apply water or saliva to the lenses; use the prescribed solution. Tap water may be contaminated with microbes that could lead to severe eye infections, and saliva is not sterile and can carry harmful bacteria. Always bring your contact lens solution to clean and lubricate your lenses if required.

Ignoring Discomfort

If the lens is uncomfortably worn, take it out and check for alignment or debris. Itching and burning can be indicative of a problem, one that if untreated can cause eye damage. Upon removal, examine the lens for tears or debris, clean it with the proper solution, and carefully reinster it.

Sleeping with Contact Lenses

Do not sleep with your lenses on unless you are wearing night-time contacts that are approved by your eye doctor. Sleeping with contact lenses that are not designed for long-term use can sap oxygen from your cornea and cause eye infections and complications. Always adhere to your eye doctor’s recommendations for lens maintenance and replacement intervals.

Tips for Seamless Lens Insertion

We recommend following these basic tips if you want to streamline your contact lens routine:

Stay Calm

Sit down and do not blink too much during insertion. A few deep breaths will help calm you down and make the process easier. Always keep in mind, being calm makes the mistake less likely and it’s smoother to go through.

Use Adequate Solution

To keep the lens comfortable, make sure to keep it wet with the correct solution. A well-lubricated lens adheres more easily to the eye and decreases irritation. To preserve lens integrity and eye health, use only the solution your eye doctor has prescribed.

Practice Makes Perfect

The more you use your lenses, the more natural it becomes. When you practice, you become more confident and get the muscle memory that allows you to insert quickly and easily. Don’t get put off by your early struggles; practice makes perfect.

Maintain Cleanliness

Wash and dry your hands before touching lenses to avoid putting bacteria into your eyes. Unwashed hands spread dirt, oil and germs to your lenses, thereby increasing the chances of eye infection. Clean your hands using a mild, antibacterial soap and dry it with a clean towel.

FAQs

Can wearing a contact lens inside out cause eye damage?

Wearing a contact lens inside out typically leads to pain, blurred vision and irritation. Although it won’t hurt your eyes if worn for a short period of time, long term use will only add discomfort and can cause problems such as redness or dryness. You should always take off and correct an inside-out lens right away. 

How can I prevent my contact lenses from flipping inside out during handling?

If you don’t want your contacts to flip inside out, always handle them gently. Place the lens on your fingertip with the edges up, and never use too much force when cleaning or inserting them. It is possible to build up a habit and stay alert when handling so that the lens will not invert.

Are there specific brands of contact lenses that are easier to tell if they're inside out?

Yes, some brands of contact lenses even offer functionality to help you figure out the right orientation. These can be laser-engraved numbers or letters, or handling tints that make it easier to tell if the lens is inverted. Ask your eye doctor for a brand that offers these user-friendly functions.

Is it possible to wear a contact lens inside-out and not even know it?

Although you can insert a contact lens from the inside out without even realizing, the majority of people will feel pain, have trouble seeing, or think something is wrong. The lens should be taken off and the orientation verified before putting it back in.

Can an inside-out contact lens fall out of my eye more easily?

An inside-out contact lens might not fit well to the shape of your eye, which results in poor fitting. This error can make the lens move too much with each blink and increase the chances that it moves out of alignment or even falls out.

A Bit of Practice Is All You Need

It may take a little practice to master the orientation of your contact lenses, but with these steps, you’ll be fine. Hygiene always comes first and don’t rush the whole thing. If you’re feeling constant pain or experiencing blurry vision even if you've done all these tips, see your eye doctor right away.